LITURGY OF THE WORD

FIRST READING: Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8 Brian Jardim, Brother-in-Law

RESPONSORIAL PSALM: Psalm 91 On Eagle’s Wings

You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord, Who abide in His shadow for life, Say to the Lord; “My refuge, My Rock in whom I trust!”

Refrain: And He will raise you up on eagle’s wings, Bear you on the breath of dawn, Make you to shine like the sun And hold you in the palm of His hand.

The snare of the fowler will never capture you, And famine will bring you no fear: Under His wings your refuge, His faithfulness your shield.

You need not fear the terror of the night, Nor the arrow that flies by day; Though thousands fall about you, Near you it shall not come. For to His angels, He’s given a command To guard you in all your ways; Upon their hands they will bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.

Final Refrain: And He will raise you up on eagle’s wings, Bear you on the breath of dawn, Make you to shine like the sun

And hold you, hold you in the palm of His hand.

SECOND READING: Romans 8: 31-35, 37-39 Penelope-Sky McConnell, Niece

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION: ‘Alleluia’ (Locksley Robinson)

‘Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, That you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom’

GOSPEL: Matthew 11: 25 - 30 Deacon Powell

HOMILY Deacon Powell

MEDIATION HYMN Gentle Woman

Hail Mary, Full of Grace, The Lord is with you.

Blessed are you among women, And blest is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners now And at the hour of death. Amen.

Refrain: Gentle woman, quiet light Morning star, so strong and bright, Gentle Mother, peaceful dove, Teach us wisdom, teach us love.

You were chosen by the Father, You were chosen for the Son. You were chosen from all women And for woman, shining one.

Blessed are you among women, Blest in turn all women, too.

Blessed they with peaceful spirits. Blessed they with gentle hearts.